Letting servers know we won't be attending dinner?

We are doing two back 2 back med cruises in the summer and have decided that whilst we will eat in the dining rooms, we will probably only do each menu once over the fortnight (so in effect we would only eat in the dining rooms on 7 out of 14 nights).

Last year we really enjoyed eating at Topsiders and I know that our two boys would much prefer to grab dinner some nights at Plutos Doghouse and stay playing by the pools, or we will get room service and watch a movie. So with this in mind.....

What is the best way to notify our Servers? I was thinking that on the first night I would explain our plans and then let them know that if we are not on time to dinner (we are always on time!) then not to expect us that evening.

I have also requested a four top table on both cruises (I know its just a request), but I thought that would at least help in terms of other table mates sitting and waiting for us.

We are doing two back 2 back med cruises in the summer and have decided that whilst we will eat in the dining rooms, we will probably only do each menu once over the fortnight (so in effect we would only eat in the dining rooms on 7 out of 14 nights).

Last year we really enjoyed eating at Topsiders and I know that our two boys would much prefer to grab dinner some nights at Plutos Doghouse and stay playing by the pools, or we will get room service and watch a movie. So with this in mind.....

What is the best way to notify our Servers? I was thinking that on the first night I would explain our plans and then let them know that if we are not on time to dinner (we are always on time!) then not to expect us that evening.

I have also requested a four top table on both cruises (I know its just a request), but I thought that would at least help in terms of other table mates sitting and waiting for us.

Or do you think there is a better way for me to handle it?

Many thanks for your thoughts

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I think it sound fine. I would, however, put a more specific time. Instead of just saying "If we're late" say "If we aren't here by XX time".

I will definitely do the 'if we are not there by .... time, then we won't be there' - thats a good idea. If dinner is say at 6pm, would you say 6.15 or is that too long if we do happen to end up with table mates?

You will most likely get a 4 top. Our requests for 4 top has always been honored (except for when I FORGOT to request it) You won't have to worry about table mates, but 6:15 is a good time to stipulate.

You will most likely get a 4 top. Our requests for 4 top has always been honored (except for when I FORGOT to request it) You won't have to worry about table mates, but 6:15 is a good time to stipulate.

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Great - thank you. Hopefully we'll get our request too, that will save me worrying about offending any tablemates

I usually inform our server the night before when I know we will not be coming to dinner. (they will try to talk you into coming)
If you see your server working breakfast or lunch you can tell them.
I have told guest services before, but the message did not make it to our server.
OR when we have table mates I let them know.